If you are majoring in the field of Natural Sciences, Mathematics, Engineering or Technology you will find that there are limitless possibilities for careers that make an impact on today's global societies. Like the CSUF STEM College Career Specialist page for informative articles, career opportunities and STEM insights.

Careers in the Natural Sciences

Natural Sciences and Mathematics is a gateway to a large number of occupations, many of which require very specific course- work for transfer and/or admission to professional schools. The academic challenge, independent reasoning and critical thinking skills required for these fields provides professional opportunities in a host of industries.

When you think of science workers, you might picture a chemist in a white lab coat running experiments—and you'd be right. But science goes beyond the laboratory. Scientists are also involved in teamwork, communication, and data analysis. Many scientists have a bach­elor's degree; often, these scientists work as research assistants or in applied sciences. But for those who focus on research, a doctorate and, possibly, years of postdoc­toral training are usually the minimum requirements.

Sample Industries for Biology Majors:

Biotechnology

Pharmaceutical

Food Processing

Agricultural Research

Space Research

Water Districts

Park Districts

Municipal Utility Districts

Education Research

Medicine/Allied Health Care

Government Agencies

Museums

Sample Professions for Chemistry and Biochemistry Majors:

Research Scientist

Biochemical Engineer

Pharmaceutical Sales

Bioinformatics Specialist

Astronaut

Manufacturing Engineer

Food or Soil & Plant Specialist

Nuclear Monitoring Technician

Chemist

Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologist

Quality Control Analyst

Teacher/Professor

Sample Professions for Physics Majors:

Astronomer

Geophysicist

Nuclear Engineer

Patent Lawyer

Experimental Physicist

Theoretical Physicist

Teacher/Professor

Mining & Geological Engineer

Petroleum Engineer

Sample Professions for Geology Majors:

Engineering Geologist

Geothermal Geologist

Marine Geologist

Mineralogist

Mining Geologist

Petroleum Geologist

Space Geologist

Hydrologist

Geographer

Careers in Mathematics

Mathematicians develop new mathematical theories and tools to solve problems. Some devise or decipher encryption methods to protect confidential information. Many occupations use mathematics. But some occu­pations focus on mathematics almost exclusively. Mathematical occupations usually require a master's or doctoral degree. A notable exception is actuaries, who usually need at least a bachelor's degree and a passing score on an actuarial exam.

Careers in Engineering & Computer Science

Engineers use scientific knowledge and tools to design products, structures, and machines. They are problem solvers who use their expertise in science and math to do their job. The work of engineers has a more widespread impact on people than virtually any other discipline. Engineers have influenced discoveries and inventions that have become essential to our everyday lives.

All engineers apply scientific knowledge and principles for practical applications. They design and test new machines, materials, and products as well as new processes and systems, and they work to improve existing ones. Most engineers specialize in a particular area but have a base of knowledge and training that can be applied in many fields

The engineering field is broad but most engineers work in these branches of engineering:

Aerospace

Mechanical

Environmental

Civil

Agricultural Mining and Geological Industrial

Computer Hardware

Biomedical

Nuclear

Materials

Electrical and Electronics

Chemical

Petroleum

To get an entry-level engineering job, one usually needs a bachelor's degree in engineering. Sometimes a bachelor's degree in physical science or mathematics may suffice, especially in high-demand specialties. Generally engineering students specialize in a particular branch of engineering but may eventually work in a related branch. Engineers who offer their services directly to the public must be licensed. These licensed engineers are called Professional Engineers (PE). To become licensed one must have a four year degree and successful completion of a state examination. Requirements vary by state.